Fall's Finest

When it comes to modeling, let's just say I should stick to being a news reporter. But when it comes to modeling running clothes, I really ought to just be wearing them while running. Nevertheless, against my better judgement, I joined a bunch of friends in Elmhurst to walk up and down a 'catwalk' wearing some of the newest fall running clothes.

The runway was in a studio/gym called Fitt-RX, a couple doors down from Fleet Feet sports in downtown Elmhurst. The 'runway' was marked off by weights placed on the floor. Chairs a couple rows deep were on either side.

It was an amazing transformation of the space. And this first attempt at a show like this in Elmhurst was a great success. The parking lot outside served as a nice gathering place with tables and a bar to enjoy a beautiful fall night. And when everyone moved inside, The fashion show was off and running, with about a dozen models, including notable Elmhurst residents and athletes. Some of them put on a show while modeling the running tops, shorts and tights. I did not attempt to carry anyone on my shoulders!

I did get in a ten yard run though!

The best part of the night was that it benefitted a great grassroots charity in Elmhurst called the No-Frills half run. Two women started it several years ago to try to raise money for a family in need. Every year it has grown tremendously, and this year they were able to make a large contribution to my friend Marshall Bell, who suffers from Muscular Dystrophy. It helped him to be able to get a new motorized wheelchair.

For next year's race, they are taking nominations for another family to help. And they already have a nice little advance amount in the bank thanks to the Fashion Show.

It was a busy week in the Elmhurst running community. Earlier in the week the Elmhurst Running Club hosted an evening with Bank of American Chicago Marathon race director Carey Pinkowski.

When I think of Fall, I think of the marathon. And Chicago's big race is only two weeks away. That made it even more impressive that Carey took the time to come speak to the group about the race. The fact that he lives in Elmhurst made it a little easier for him, but this is obviously a pretty busy time of year for him!

Carey offered advice on last minute tapering for the big race, as well as some insight about what goes into planning for 40,000 runners traveling 26.2 miles through the streets of Chicago. It's a full-time, year-round job for a staff of about 30 people.

There was much more, and as the marathon approaches there will be many more opportunities to hear from the man who has a part of Columbus Drive, at the start of the marathon course, named for him.

I've known Carey for more than two decades, and he is still as enthusiastic about making Chicago the best marathon possible as he was when he started. He has guided the marathon through tremendous growth, along with growing pains, over the years. He is a Chicago treasure, and we are fortunate to have him. Go hear him speak if you get a chance.